Manchester City have asked to be kept informed about Jay Rodriguez as they weigh up a summer move for the Southampton striker.

The Premier League champions have been monitoring the England international since last season but they are not expected to launch an official bid until Rodriguez proves he has fully recovered from the anterior cruciate ligament injury he suffered at City in April.

The 25-year-old is still to return to action after suffering a setback in his recovery before Christmas.

It would take an offer in excess of £20m to convince Southampton to sell another of their prize assets, following the departures of Luke Shaw, Adam Lallana and Dejan Lovren last summer.

Tottenham have already had a bid rejected.

Rodriguez hasn't played since suffering ligament damage against City last April

Manuel Pellegrini will look to freshen up his aging squad at the end of the season - and Rodriguez fits the profile of the young, British talent City would like to add to their ranks.

They are also planning a move for Everton’s Ross Barkley, regarded as a potential replacement for Yaya Toure.

The England starlet would cost in the region of £50m - but City’s interest is evidence of their determination to inject youth into their squad.

Their interest in Rodriguez places Stevan Jovetic’s future in doubt.

Pellegrini insisted last week that the Montenegro striker would not be sold - despite the £25m arrival of Wilfried Bony this month.

But the 25-year-old’s failure to establish himself as a first choice partner for Sergio Aguero has led to increased speculation that he will be allowed to leave the Etihad.

Rodriguez scored 17 goals for Southampton last season - earning him an England call-up.

But he hasn’t played since a 4-1 defeat against City last April.

Here is what City fans had to say in our January transfer window survey: